The Lagos State University (LASU) crisis has deepened as the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) begins an indefinite strike over the state government's failure to implement the 2026 SSANU-Federal Government agreement. The strike, approved by the union's National Executive Council, comes two weeks after the Academic Staff Union of Universities began a strike over the same issue, crippling academic activities at the institution. The SSANU action was contained in a letter dated October 1, 2026.
According to the letter signed by the union's General Secretary, Comrade Kabiru Duhu, the National Executive Council considered the dispute during its 56th meeting, held at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 30 and October 1. The council noted that the Lagos State Government had refused to implement the 2026 SSANU/FGN agreement, which includes 35 per cent of CONTISS as Consolidated Non-Teaching Tools Allowance and other components of earned allowances.
The Joint Action Committee of unions in Lagos State-owned universities had issued an ultimatum to the state government to implement the agreement. Following the expiration of the ultimatum on Friday, October 2, the council authorised the LASU branch to begin an indefinite strike from October 5. The council also directed members to ensure total compliance with the action.
The strike by SSANU is a major blow to the already crippled academic activities at LASU, which has been affected by the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities. The development has raised concerns about the impact on students and the academic calendar. The LASU branch of SSANU has been directed to constantly update the National Vice President of the zone on developments during the struggle.
The Lagos State Government has not made any official statement on the strike, but the development is likely to increase pressure on the government to address the issues. The 2026 agreement was expected to address the welfare and working conditions of staff at LASU and other universities in the state. The failure to implement the agreement has led to frustration among staff and students.
The strike by SSANU and ASUU has significant implications for the education sector in Lagos State. The ongoing industrial action has disrupted academic activities, causing anxiety among students and parents. The situation is being closely monitored, with stakeholders calling for a resolution to the crisis.
The LASU VC, Prof Olawumi, was recently appointed by Sanwo-Olu, and the new VC faces the challenge of resolving the crisis. The VC's ability to navigate the complex situation and find a solution will be crucial in resolving the strike and restoring normalcy to academic activities at LASU.
Key points
- The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) begins indefinite strike at LASU.
- The strike is over non-implementation of 2026 SSANU-Federal Government agreement.
- The development deepens the crisis at LASU, which has been affected by the ongoing strike by ASUU.
